Teephlow criticizes TGMA criteria for Rapper of the Year category

Ghanaian rapper Teephlow has expressed his bewilderment at never winning the Rapper of the Year award at the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA), despite his consistent presence in the category over several years. During a recent interview, the lyricist pointed out that among his contemporary peers, he appears to be the only one who has not yet secured the prestigious title. He questioned whether the consistent snub reflects a lack of merit in the selection process or a shift in the standards used by the awards' technical committee to evaluate rap performance.

Central to Teephlow's concern is the emphasis placed on commercial metrics versus technical skill. He argued that streaming numbers and popularity should not be the primary determinants for an award that specifically honors lyrical ability. The rapper suggested that the current system may overlook artistic quality in favor of digital reach. To address this, he proposed the implementation of specialized judging panels for different categories, ensuring that experts in specific genres—such as hip-hop—evaluate the entries based on their technical and creative contributions to the craft rather than just their chart performance.

Despite his critique of the TGMA processes, Teephlow indicated a willingness to engage with the award organizers to help refine the selection criteria for future editions. He emphasized that while he values the recognition of his peers and the industry, his primary focus remains the creation of high-quality music rather than the pursuit of accolades. By advocating for a more nuanced approach to the Rapper of the Year category, Teephlow hopes to see a system that better rewards the intricate wordplay and storytelling that define the genre in Ghana.